I have written this new page out of public demand, because so many people on the Internet keep asking for this specific advice, all more or less with the same question: "what would be your own 'must have shopping list' be for buying new double glazing".

Well, here goes, and I don't expect all double glazing firms will agree with what I have to say, but then it is a free country!

These are my standard specifications for the replacement windows that I supply and fit.
I would not be happy if the windows I fit failed to meet any of this criteria and in fact I would challenge anyone who thought they could beat my value for money. If you want to buy cheaper than this quality then go ahead - but is 'cheap' ever really the best value for money in the long term?

Pilkington K glass - "low e" - made into 28mm double glazed sealed units – high thermal insulation and noise reduction, and meeting the new Building Regs. of April 2002.

Full 70mm frame thickness – replicates most original window profile size, and less noticeable mastic line and making good on the outside.

Fully welded framework, no screwed together joints – makes them more rigid and sturdy.

All products meet/exceed the relevant British Standards, including the revised document L.

Full 10 year guarantee on all frames against faulty materials and workmanship.

Independent insurance company backed guarantee.

Make CERTAIN that your chosen supplier is FENSA registered.

Of course there are other good makes around and I wouldn't deny that, just remember you get what you pay for, and if you want to buy cheaper then go ahead, it's your money, and your home.

Most important: Since April 1st 2002 make CERTAIN that your chosen supplier is FENSA registered, that way you should get a certificate of Building Control compliance after the job is finished, and you should also be offered an independent insurance company backed guarantee. This is almost imperative to avoid big problems if ever you want to sell your property, and to ensure that the quality in all resects meets/exceeds the latest (and high) standards.

This is what I mean by 'fully welded', because ALL joints are welded.

It may seem hard to believe but there are firms who make their windows up by just butt fitting some joints, and with just self tapping screws holding them together! This is referred to as 'mechanically jointed'.

The line to the right of the vee weld shows that this is an internally beaded window which is 'reverse butt welded'. This line is cleaned up after manufacture.

This picture shows a 'Scotia' shaped beading which is indoors.

This is what holds the glass double glazing in place in the window frame.

Interior beaded windows with openers are a lot more expensive to make than exterior beaded as well.

Introduction to the Eurocell 'Ultimate 70' casement windows:
Eurocell casement windows replicate traditional British softwood multi-light casements and are also suitable to replace steel and Aluminium windows, and for use in new-build.

Design Features• Outward opening casement windows are available in white, woodgrain on white, or oak.• Internally glazed windows with steel or Aluminium reinforcement as applicable.• Multi-chambered construction isolates the reinforcement chamber and improves drainage.• Glazing is with hermetically sealed double glazed units of 28mm overall thickness (4-20-4).• Fully bevelled profile system, does not easily collect airborne dirt particles and contamination.• Full depth Euro groove to the rear of the sash for enhanced security.• The full suite of Eurocell 70mm window profiles is interchangeable allowing many design options• Scotia style glazing bead indoors, style and security for PVC-U windows.• Mock horn option to replicate the look of old style sash windows if desired.• Arched top optional inserts can be fitted for a small extra cost.• Georgian bar or leaded lights options for a character effect.

Hardware and Fittings
Eurocell internally beaded casement windows accommodate high security 'Saracen' hinges and the most modern operating multi point shoot bolt and mortise lock gear which guarantees the system can achieve the best weather, security and safety performance.

Ventilation
Various ventilation options are available - adjustable ventilators to meet the new requirements of Building Regulation Approved Document F, and permanent ventilators for combustion air complying with BS 5440: Part 2, (we just call them the 'gas regs').
Maintenance and Cleaning
Although classed as 'maintenance free' the faces of window frames should be cleaned every three to four months with warm water and a mild liquid detergent to remove airborne contamination. Proprietary glass cleaner is recommended for sealed units, and avoid the use of washing up liquid. Hardware should be lubricated with a light machine oil or silicone lubricant every 6 to 12 months.

Eurocell Profiles Ltd is part of Fairbrook plc., the highly rated precision engineering
and plastic extruding group of companies.

Founded in 1974, the company has a vast wealth of experience in designing and manufacturing products in a wide range of extruded plastics.

Based in Derbyshire, the company has a 40,000 sq. ft. extrusion and tool-making facility and over 60,000 sq. ft. of warehousing.
Another 100,000 sq. ft. factory was opened in the year 2000 continuing the massive long term investment that characterises Eurocell.
Eurocells' design and development team work with the latest cad/cam technology.

A corner of a bay pole assembly and the load bearing metal bay window pole in the middle.

This shows a through section of profiles that go to make up a typical PVC-U window.

This is an old picture and is for illustration purposes only as the bead (as it used to be in the old days) is on the outside, but it gives you the general idea.

Note that the outer leg at the bottom of the window frame overlaps the cill. This is a design feature which facilitates 'drainage'.

A window through the looking glass:

Double glazing and having double glazed glass in replacement windows gives you insulation.

Having double glazed sealed units in replacement windows doors, and conservatories - double glazing -is just like putting on another layer of clothing to keep out the cold.

Double Glazing Salesmen
All of their nasty tricks and tactics - FINALLY EXPOSED!!!